The Cost of a Trip between Bozeman, Montana and Fort Collins, Colorado
If you're planning a road trip from Bozeman, Montana to Fort Collins, Colorado, one of the first things you're likely wondering is how much it's going to cost. With gas prices fluctuating regularly, it can be difficult to figure out exactly what you're going to spend on your journey.
However, careful planning and consideration of the different routes can help you estimate the total cost of your trip. In this article, we'll take a look at the different possible routes between Bozeman and Fort Collins and highlight the costs and distances of each one.
The Routes
There are a few different routes you could take between Bozeman and Fort Collins, but here are the most common:
Route 1
This route takes you south from Bozeman to Yellowstone National Park and then west through Idaho, Utah, and Wyoming before heading south again to Fort Collins.
Distance: Approximately 770 miles
Route 2
This route follows I-90 east from Bozeman to Billings, Montana, then south on I-25 through Wyoming to Fort Collins.
Distance: Approximately 665 miles
Route 3
This route takes you southwest from Bozeman on US-191 to West Yellowstone, then south through Idaho and Wyoming before turning east on I-80 near Rawlins, Wyoming and continuing to Fort Collins.
Distance: Approximately 720 miles
The Costs
The main costs associated with a road trip are gas, food, and lodging. For this article, we'll focus on the estimated cost of gas for each route.
To calculate the cost of gas for each route, we'll assume a car that gets 25 miles per gallon and a gas price of $3.00 per gallon. We'll also estimate that the car will need to be filled up three times.
Route 1
Distance: Approximately 770 miles
Estimated gas cost: $108.00
Route 2
Distance: Approximately 665 miles
Estimated gas cost: $89.00
Route 3
Distance: Approximately 720 miles
Estimated gas cost: $96.00
The Best Route
When it comes to choosing the best route between Bozeman and Fort Collins, there are a few factors to consider, including distance, cost, and time.
While Route 1 is the longest and most expensive, it may be the most scenic. You'll see Yellowstone National Park, which is a truly breathtaking sight. However, this route may add an extra day to your trip.
Route 2 is the shortest and cheapest, but it's also the least scenic. It follows the interstate through mostly flat and uneventful terrain.
Route 3 is a good middle ground, with a reasonable distance and cost and some scenic views of both Yellowstone National Park and the Wyoming countryside.
Ultimately, it depends on your personal preferences and your travel goals. If you're short on time, Route 2 might be the best option. If you want to take your time and see some beautiful natural wonders, Route 1 might be the way to go.
Conclusion
Overall, the cost of a road trip from Bozeman to Fort Collins varies depending on the route you choose. While Route 2 is the cheapest, it may not be the most enjoyable or scenic. Routes 1 and 3 are both good options, depending on your preferences.
No matter which route you choose, be sure to plan accordingly and budget for gas, food, and lodging. With the right preparation, you can have a successful and enjoyable trip.